The Colour Party for the Royal Canadian Legion Branch in Prince Albert has a new Sergeant at Arms.
Tim Hogan recently took over the position from longtime Sergeant at Arms Gary Renaud. Hogan said Renaud decided it was time for a new person to lead the Colour Party. Hogan himself has been a member of the Colour Party for several years.
“I would say probably, I don’t know, five, six years,” Hogan said.
The Colour Party is the official flag group of the Prince Albert Legion. It stands for the traditions of our military and carries the flags with reverence and pride. It is made up of volunteer members who represent the Legion at various functions and events.
Hogan said the role is simple but important.
“Basically what it is, is to lead on the colour party and give instructions to them as in terms of, where they need to go and what turn they need to do,” Hogan said.
Hogan said his previous experience as a member of the Colour Party helps him in his role as Sergeant at Arms.
Tim Hogan leads the Colour Party on during the Legion Week Opening Ceremony in September.
Hogan also said the Colour Party is very important to what the Legion represents.
“It definitely gives you an idea of what needs to take place and when,” he explained.
“The Colour Party is there to attend funerals of veterans and, of course, special events like Decoration Day and Remembrance Day.”
Hogan said the Colour Party is an important symbol for both the Legion and ANAVETS Colour Parties.
Hogan joined the Colour Party because he was asked to, but kept doing it because he enjoyed it. He recommends Legion members become part of the Colour Party at their local branches if asked because the role is an important one.
Tim Hogan was part of the Colour Party during Decoration Day in June.
“What we’re doing is remembering and honouring all those who made so many sacrifices for us so that we could live the life we do today,” he explained.
Another important service of the Colour Guard is in schools across Prince Albert for Remembrance Day services.
“Usually during the month of November, we do a number of ones at school which is another special thing we do,” he explained.
Hogan said these events are a great way to educate students on the importance of Remembrance Day.
The Remembrance Day ceremony will be back at the Prince Albert Amoury on Nov. 11.
The public is asked to arrive by 10:30 a.m. At 10:55 a.m., the colour party will march on the colours, with the playing of the Last Post at 11 a.m. followed by a minute of silence.
This is followed by the Honour Roll, Act of Remembrance and Closing Prayer.
